The hidden costs of Christmas

Disabled families face hidden costs every day of the year, but the extra costs of Christmas can push them beyond their financial limits. This means that many cannot afford to celebrate.

This Christmas we are raising awareness that life costs more if you’re disabled. And the vital role that Scope’s helpline plays in supporting disabled people and families.

Families like Adonis’s. Adonis was born with Down Syndrome and a chronic bowel disease. He had to undergo major bowel surgery before his parents took him home for the first time on Christmas day 2 years ago.

Adonis’s condition requires extra care and support, leaving his parents with hidden costs that many families don’t face. These include extra nappies and wipes, special food, and petrol and parking for hospital visits.

How you can help

Our trained helpline advisers can provide free, practical advice and reassurance when it’s needed most. But 1 in every 4 calls to our helpline goes unanswered.

It costs nearly £1 a minute to answer a call to the helpline and an average call costs £20. Please help us to be there for families like Adonis’s by donating this Christmas.